For Congressman Farr, it was a special occasion as he is both a former MIIS student and very active in veterans affairs in Washington, D.C. He told the veterans and their families that they are the “future leaders” of this country, noting that nothing could compare with the experience of military life combined with the education they are getting at the Monterey Institute.

The private setting for the reception gave the congressman, MIIS veterans, and their spouses the opportunity to discuss openly some of the personal challenges of military service and the transition back to civilian life. Responding to the stories told by MIIS student veterans and their spouses, Farr encouraged them: “You can always call your congressman—and please call me!”